ADF Delivers Specialist Training in Vanuatu

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) partnered with the Vanuatu Police Force (VPF) to deliver specialist training in Port Vila, Vanuatu last month.

Supported by the VanuatuAustralia Defence Cooperation Program, the three-week program focused on delivering training aligned with VPF priorities. This included leadership development, vehicle maintenance, armourer training, fitness, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) planning, and public affairs and photography skills.

ADF Mobile Training Team Contingent Commander Major Zach Lambert was proud of what the ADF and VPF had achieved together during the training.

“The training not only provided opportunity for the ADF to share knowledge and skills with our niVanuatu family, but also learn from the VPF, especially their experience in disaster management and response,” Major Lambert said.

A contingent of 22 ADF members, primarily from the Australian Army’s 7th Combat Brigade, formed the Mobile Training Team delivering the training to over 102 members from across the VPF.

Acting Commander Vanuatu Mobile Force Lieutenant Colonel Kalshem Bongran commented that the training was critical to supporting the Vanuatu Mobile Force and broader police force.

“This training has assisted in further developing the key skills and knowledge needed, including leadership and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief planning, to deliver key tasks outlined in Vanuatu’s National Security Strategy.

“This training is also an opportunity for VMF and ADF soldiers to work collaboratively and share their experiences and I am very proud of them,” said Lieutenant Colonel Bongran.

Commander Deployable Joint Force Headquarters Major General Scott Winter said the training activity built on Australia and Vanuatu’s close partnership and friendship.

“We continue to work closely with Vanuatu to deepen our strong and long-standing security partnership, promoting our shared interests and connections between our people,” Major General Winter said.

“Partnered training opportunities like this enhance our ability to work with the VPF on future activities or potential operations in response to natural disasters, and complement other key Vanuatu-Australian security initiatives currently underway.”

These activities include the Cook and Tiroas Barracks Redevelopment, upgrades to RVS Mala Base Wharf, the Vanuatu Government National Emergency Radio Network and other training opportunities.

The health and safety of our niVanuatu family remains the number one priority and all ADF members complied with Vanuatu and Australia’s COVID-19 protocols and measurers during the deployment.

Vanuatu Police Force Corporal Jonathan Tebi conducts a casualty drag with Australian Army Sergeant Craig Cole during a battle physical training session. RAAF Corporal Kieren Whiteley (centre), from the ADF Mobile Training Team, flies a drone with Sackrine Kaman (left) and Constable Junior Borenga (right) of the Vanuatu Police Force during the Public Affairs Course in Port Vila, Vanuatu. Defence images.

Box Hill Institute to deliver skills training for ADF

The Australian Department of Defence (DoD) has awarded a $35.86m (A$50m) contract to Victorian education and training provider Box Hill Institute.

Under this award, Box Hill Institute will deliver specialist skills training for Australia’s Army, Air Force and Navy work force.

The education and training provider has signed a five-year contract extension to continue providing technical and trade training.

This training will be delivered through the Defence Command Support Training Centre (DCSTC).

DCSTC operates at several defence bases throughout Australia.

Australia Defence Industry Minister Melissa Price said: “We know that our sailors, soldiers and aviators must have the best training support available, both now and into the future.

“We are facing a deteriorating strategic environment where the challenges we face are constantly changing.

“This means our training must be cutting edge and adaptable to ensure we are ready to deal with the threats at hand, and I am extremely confident that this contract will ensure that happens.

“The Morrison Government is proud to invest in programmes that further strengthen defence’s industry partnerships.

“The Box Hill Institute has considerable experience working hand-in-hand with military instructors and I am confident that it will continue to provide highly effective training.”

About 35% of the trainees to receive the training are new to defence, while the remaining are current serving personnel returning for ‘career development or progression training’ in their trade.

Director General Training and Doctrine Brigadier Glenn Ryan, CSC and Bar (2nd from right), and the CEO of Box Hill Institute, Ms Vivienne King (3rd from left), with Army and Box Hill Institute personnel at Simpsons Barracks, Victoria. Defence image.

According to a ADF statement, the contract will adapt to the future learning requirements of defence.

Furthermore, the new contract also includes music training for ADF musicians to generate the band capabilities of the three services.

Since 2014, the Box Hill Institute has been training the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army, Royal Australian Air Force, Australian Public Servants and other military members of foreign nations.

AAFCANS (Army & Air Force Canteen Service) as a Commonwealth Entity and a member of the Defence family continues to invest in facilities and technologies to improve our products and services on base and on exercise. Our organisation exists solely to provide Defence members with access to quality food and beverages and retail items and to support base welfare. AAFCANS gives back to Defence through welfare disbursements, price cuts and facility improvements. Last financial year AAFCANS disbursed $534,985 to Defence welfare. If you would like more information about our organisation please visit our website www.AAFCANS.gov.au and make contact-we'd love to hear from you!